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NYC Wet Location - Install Instruction

NYC Wet-Location Exit Signs – Selection & Install Guide

NYC wet-location exit signs are built for rain, wash-down, and outdoor exposure—without compromising the city’s stricter rules on legend size, color, construction, and testing. This guide explains when NYC requires wet-location gear, how it differs from “damp,” and what inspectors actually check so you pass the first time.

NYC-Approved Exit Signs NYC Compliance Guide

Last updated: October 2025

Overview: When NYC requires wet-location exit signs

Use wet-location models wherever signs are directly exposed to water: exterior doors, open garages, rooftops, loading docks, hose-down spaces, or wind-driven rain. If you’re new to NYC exit sign fundamentals (legend size, color, placement), start with NYC exit signs info.

Wet vs. Damp: Definitions & examples

  • Damp location: Moisture/condensation is present, but not direct spray or rain. Typical: covered vestibules, semi-enclosed garages, humid interiors.
  • Wet location: Direct spray, wash-down, rain, or snow possible. Typical: open garages, exterior egress doors, rooftops, food-service hose-down.

NYC enforces wet/damp distinctions alongside UL 924 and NFPA 101. For broader emergency lighting context, see NYC emergency lighting requirements.

NYC-specific expectations (legend, housing, listings)

  • Legend: Commonly 8" red letters with high contrast; no stylized faces or dim legends.
  • Housing: Robust, gasketed enclosures that prevent water ingress. Metal or rugged architectural builds are preferred on high-visibility projects.
  • Listing: UL 924 with 90-minute runtime. Look for sealed indicators, protected test interface, and tamper-resistant hardware.
  • Surface integration: For clean ceilings/walls, consider recessed formats designed for NYC—see recessed NYC exit signs & emergency lights.

Selection checklist (NEMA/IP, materials, heaters)

  • NEMA/IP rating: Match exposure. For wash-down or driven rain, a sealed NEMA-style enclosure (often 4/4X-type performance) or equivalent IP protection is typical.
  • Materials: Corrosion-resistant housings (polycarbonate, stainless hardware, UV-stable trims). Gasket integrity is critical.
  • Temperature: Cold-weather kits/heaters for rooftop or unconditioned spaces.
  • Electrical: UL 924 with battery isolation and protected test switch; consider self-diagnostics for large sites.
  • Form factor: Where EXIT + heads on one unit are preferred, review NYC combo options.

Installation & placement in wet areas

  • Mounting plane: Maintain gasket compression; avoid twisted canopies or uneven surfaces.
  • Cable/conduit entry: Use rated fittings; seal penetrations to prevent wicking.
  • Sightlines: Keep the legend clear around door hardware, pipes, and exterior devices; add intermediate signs where the path turns.
  • Cleaning: For wash-down, verify drain paths and keep spray off indicator windows where possible.

Testing, self-diagnostics & maintenance

NYC still expects monthly quick checks and an annual 90-minute test. Self-diagnostic signs run automatic cycles and expose failures via indicator codes—ideal for large campuses or hard-to-access exteriors. For feature details and NYC usage, see NYC self-testing exit signs.

FAQs

Can I use green EXIT signs in NYC wet locations?

Red is the accepted standard citywide. Use green only with explicit project approvals.

Do wet-location signs still need 90-minute batteries?

Yes—NYC follows UL 924 runtime. Inspectors will check indicators and test access.

Are recessed wet-location models acceptable?

Yes—when designed and listed for the exposure. Coordinate trims and sealing details; see the recessed NYC guide above.

Next steps

Need models that pass NYC review? Start here:

NYC-Approved Exit Signs NYC Compliance Guide